countdown to 2027 ICC ODI World Cup It has already begun and the anticipation continues to grow ahead of the co-hosted tournament South Africa, ZimbabweAnd namibia. After finishing runner-up in the 2023 edition, India Will once again enter the competition as one of the strongest contenders for the prestigious trophy.
The Men in Blue are ready to start a new era under the captain Shubman GillWho is expected to lead the side in the global event. However, the biggest talking point is whether the Indian team management will continue to support the experienced duo Virat Kohli And Rohit Sharma For another World Cup campaign. Although this decision will emerge with time, many former cricketers have started choosing their favorite Indian XI for the tournament. Joining that conversation is India’s former opening batsman Wasim Jaffer He has revealed the final XI that he believes should represent the country at the 2027 World Cup.
Wasim Jaffer chose his India XI for ODI World Cup 2027
Jaffer has largely opted for a mix of proven experience and established match-winners, while keeping the core of India’s ODI setup intact despite the change in leadership. Their lineup starts with experienced opener Rohit along with captain Gill at the top of the order, a combination that has consistently performed well in the 50-over format.
Kohli is at number three Shreyas Iyer Occupying the important number 4 spot. The middle order becomes stronger because of the wicketkeeper-batsman. KL RahulWhereas hardik pandya Fast bowling provides the much-needed balance as an all-rounder.
Jafar has chosen Akshar Patel As a spin-bowling all-rounder, giving India additional depth in both batting and bowling. wrist-spinner -Kuldeep Yadav Spin leads the attack while the pace unit is involved Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami And Mohammad Siraj.
Wasim Jaffer’s India playing XI for ODI World Cup 2027: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.
Also read: Hanuma Vihari selected Team India’s experienced playing eleven for ODI World Cup 2027
Expectations increased under the leadership of Shubman Gill
The 2027 ODI World Cup is expected to be a defining chapter in Shubman Gill’s career as he looks set to lead India on cricket’s biggest stage. Having emerged as one of the premier batsmen in the world over the past few years, Gill now has the added responsibility of guiding a team keen to end their long wait for another 50-over World Cup title.
While the young captain is expected to shape the future of Indian cricket, the presence of senior figures like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami could prove invaluable if they continue to be a part of the team. His experience in handling high-pressure knockout matches will complement Gill’s leadership and provide stability during crucial moments.
India’s mix of youth and experience is often seen as one of its greatest strengths and Jaffer’s selection reflects that philosophy. Although the final squad will depend on form, fitness and performances next year, discussions have already gathered around India’s ideal World Cup XI.